COATING FOR THE PROTECTION OF STRUCTURAL STEELWORK

Guides to Good Practice in Corrosion Control

2295/aaron/IK/0004

Coating for the Protection of Structural Steelwork

The National Physical Laboratory is operated on behalf of the DTI by NPL Management Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Serco Group plc

Coating for the Protection of Structural Steelwork

Contents 1.0 2.0 3.0 4.0

5.0

6.0

7.0 8.0

9.0

Introduction Basic requirements for protecting steel Selecting the protective system Protective paint systems

1 1 1 2

4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5

2 2 2 3 3

Introduction Primers Undercoats (intermediate coats) Finishes The system

The main constituents of paint

3

5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4

3 3 3 3

Introduction The pigments The binder The solvent

Main generic types of paint & their properties

4

6.1 6.2 6.3

4 4 4

Air drying paints One-pack chemical resistant paints Two-pack chemical resistant paints

Classification of paints Prefabrication primers

4 4

8.1 8.2 8.3 8.4 8.5

4 5 5 5 5

Introduction Etch primers Epoxy primers Zinc epoxy primers Zinc silicate primers

The application of paints

5

9.1 9.2 9.3 9.4

5 6 6 6

Introduction Brush application Roller application Spray application

10.0 Conditions of application 10.1 Introduction 10.2 Temperature 10.3 Humidity

11.0 Metallic coatings 11.1 Introduction 11.2 Hot dip galvanizing 11.3 Thermal spray coatings

12.0 13.0 14.0 15.0 16.0 17.0 18.0 19.0 This is an update of a DTI publication first issued in 1982. The new version has been prepared by Dr. R. Hudson of Corus Group plc under contract from NPL for the Department of Trade and Industry

page

6 6 6 6

7 7 7 8

Specifying the protective system Factors affecting choice Writing the specification Inspection Cost Health & safety Environmental protection Additional reference reading & further sources of information

8 9 10 10 11 11 11 12

Additional reference reading further sources of information

12 12

Coatings for the Protection of Structural Steelwork

1.0 Introduction The purpose of this guide is to explain, in terms of modern concepts, the basic requirements for protecting structural steel with paint and metallic coatings, the systems commonly used and their significance in relation to the protective properties required. The emphasis is on the protection of onshore structures, such as buildings, bridges, factories, and industrial plants in which the process environment contributes to the corrosion hazard. Reference is made to appropriate standards which deal with alternative protective systems in detail. These documents are a very valuable source of information and it is recommended that they should be consulted freely at an early stage in the selection of a protective coating. Emphasis is given to the important influence of application methods on the efficiency of the protection achieved, and on the need for strict inspection procedures. Guidance is also given on procedures to be used when drafting specifications, and on the health and safety and environmental protection requirements to be observed.

2.0 Basic requirements for protecting steel Steel will rust only if water and oxygen are both present and the rusting process is greatly accelerated by pollutants in the atmosphere, such as sulphur dioxide from the burning of oil, coal, or gas and chlorides from de-icing salts or marine atmospheres. Solid pollutants can be hygroscopic and may promote localised attack (e.g. corrosion pitting) at specific points on exposed steel. Protective systems must be resistant to attack by such pollutants and should be applied only to surfaces from which they have been removed. The importance of surface preparation is paramount to all coating systems and for painted surfaces is dealt with in Guide No. 13 in this series: ‘Surface Preparation for Coating’. To ensure good coating adhesion, it is essential that the surface to be coated is rendered free of dirt, dust and debris that might affect performance. Water-soluble residues, if left on the surface, will cause rapid deterioration at the interface with paint when the coating is exposed to moisture.

one

Paint is the most commonly used material to protect steel, and in practice the term, ‘paint’ covers a wide range of materials with different properties. The application of paint is comparatively easy with no limitation on the size of steelwork that can be treated. Modern paints have been developed to provide improved properties over their predecessors. However, the benefit of these improvements will only be achieved by careful attention to important factors such as surface preparation, the selection of a suitable paint for the specific situation, and correct application. For structural steelwork the paint film thickness is important for lasting protection since it is difficult to obtain perfect application under construction conditions. Best results are obtained when coatings are applied in heated enclosed workshops; units for bridge structures and building framework can be coated in this manner before erection and additional coats may be applied on site, where required. Modern coating facilities can automatically blast clean and prime steelwork before departure to site. Where improved resistance to mechanical damage or better durability in certain environments is required, coatings of non-ferrous metals such as zinc or aluminium can be used instead of paint coatings, although this may incur increased cost. The combination of metallic and paint coatings can provide very long term durability in aggressive environments and an aesthetically pleasing appearance.

3.0 Selecting the protective system One of the most widely referenced guides to the selection of protective systems for steel has been BS 5493:1977. However, in recent years, new standards for paint and metal coatings have been developed. These are EN ISO 12944 Parts 1 to 8 ‘Paints and Varnishes - Corrosion Protection of Steel Structures by Protective Paint Systems’ and EN ISO 14713 ‘Protection Against Corrosion of Iron and Steel Structures - Metal Coatings - Guidelines’. These standards classify common types of environments and related corrosivity categories and provide an indication of ‘life to first maintenance’ of the protective system in each environment. Typical lives to first maintenance are: Very long:

20 years or more

Long:

10 to 20 years

Medium:

5 to 10 years

Short:

less than 5 years


For ‘very long life’, the systems are thick hot dip galvanizing or thermal (metal) spraying with an appropriate sealing coat of paint. For long and medium life, selected high performance paint systems are suggested. Paint systems based on drying oils are suitable only for short life to first maintenance in aggressive environments, but are included in the long and medium life in non-polluted exterior and certain interior environments. In dry interior environments, the corrosion risk is insignificant and no protective coating is necessary. Painting may, however, be required for decorative or appearance purposes. The transition from medium to long life to first maintenance is achieved by additional film thickness, provided that the finish maintains the necessary appearance and weathering resistance. Some systems depart from the conventional primer/undercoat/finish systems. This is possible when a specialised protection can be applied in one or two coats direct to steel that has been blast cleaned to a high standard of cleanliness; elastomeric urethane, solvent free and coal-tar-epoxy systems for long life are typical.

There are two basic types of primer: (i)

Primers pigmented with metallic elements anodic to steel. When a break in the coating exposes the steel substrate, the anodic metal corrodes sacrificially in preference to the steel. This effectively stifles steel corrosion and under-rusting of the primer until the anodic metal is exhausted. Zinc-rich primers are the most commonly used.

(ii)

Primers relying on the high adhesion and chemical resistance properties of the binding media, of which two-pack epoxies are typical. The necessary adhesion is obtained only on a very thoroughly cleaned surface and it is then sufficient to prevent under-rusting at mechanical breaks. These primers may contain inhibitive pigments to interfere with the corrosion process. Zinc phosphate, for example, is a mildly inhibitive pigment and is widely used in modern primer formulations.

4.3

Undercoats (intermediate coats)

The undercoats (or intermediate coats) are applied to ‘build’ It should be recognised that paint manufacturers compete with each other to offer their products under brand names. However, as most specifications are written against generic paint types, it is difficult for the specifier and the user to be certain what type comparisons are valid. Many standards and guidance documents have gone a long way towards explaining and clarifying the purpose of the constituents of paints and in specifying minimum composition guidelines. More information on these constituents relevant to protective coatings for structural steel is given in the following sections.

the total film thickness of the system. Generally, the thicker the coating the longer the life. This may involve the application of several coats. Undercoats are specially designed to enhance the overall protection and, when highly pigmented, decrease permeability to oxygen and water. The incorporation of laminar pigments, such as micaceous iron oxide, reduces or delays moisture penetration in humid atmospheres and improves tensile strength. Undercoats must remain compatible with finishing coats when there are unavoidable delays in applying them.

4.0 Protective paint systems 4.1

Introduction

Acrylic Urethane

Finish Coat

` Conventionally, protective paint systems consist of primer, undercoat(s) and finish coats. (Figure 1) However, there are now

Epoxy

Intermediate Coat

available single coat systems that combine primer and finish coats. Epoxy MIO

4.2

Primers

The primer is applied directly onto the cleaned steel surface.

Epoxy

Zinc Rich Epoxy

Undercoat Sealer

Primer Coat

Its purpose is to wet the surface and to provide good Steel

adhesion for subsequently applied coats. In the case of primers for steel surfaces, these are also usually required to provide corrosion inhibition.

Figure 1. Protective paint system

two


4.4

Finishes

Other voc limits for coatings applied to ships and marine vessels appear in Clause 20(a) of PG6/23.

The finish provides the required appearance and surface resistance of the system. Depending on the conditions of exposure, it must also provide the first line of defence against weather and sunlight, open exposure, condensation (as on the undersides of bridges), highly polluted atmospheres in chemical plant, impact and abrasion at floor or road level, and bacteria and fungi (in food factories and farms).

4.5

The system

The various superimposed coats within a painting system have, of course, to be compatible with one another. They may

It is suggested that reference should be made to the latest amendments of PG6/23 at the time of preparing a coating specification. It is, therefore, important to ensure that the protection specification considers where the different paint types are to be applied and whether they are ‘compliant’. At present there are no major restrictions on the types of paints used on site for finishes and maintenance. Specifiers, however, are encouraged to consider paints with low voc values to reduce damage to the atmosphere.

5.0 The main constituents of paint

be all of the same generic type or may be different, e.g. chemical resistant types, such as a recoatable polyurethane finish coat, may be applied onto epoxy primer and intermediate

5.1

Introduction

coats. However, as a first precaution, all paints within a system should normally be obtained from the same manufacturer and used in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations. With the introduction of the Environmental Protection Act

The main constituents of paint are the binder, pigment and solvent. Each constituent has a specific function and effect on the formation of the film and film properties.

5.2

The pigments

(1990), it is now a statutory requirement that ‘shop applied’ paints comply with the relevant Process Guidance Notes to minimise the release of harmful volatile organic compounds (voc) into the atmosphere. From 1st April 1998, all shop

Pigments are finely ground inorganic or organic powders which provide colour, opacity, film cohesion and sometimes corrosion inhibition.

applied paint coatings must be ‘compliant’ with the appropriate paint type category in Process Guidance Note PG6/23 (97) Coating of Metal and Plastic. Essentially this means that unless there is a system of solvent recovery or incineration, the following voc limits (g/L) apply under Clause 20(d) of PG6/23: Etch / wash primer Prefabrication / blast primer Tie coat / sealer General primer / undercoat Top (finish) coats

780 780 780 250 420

introduced the following additional voc limits (g/L). 600 420 600

Also, where a single coat (primer/finish) is specified, the voc limit is 420 g/l. Where a primer is to be subsequently overcoated, the original 250 g/l limit applies.

three

The binder

Binders are usually resins or oils but can be inorganic compounds such as soluble silicates. The binder is the filmforming component in the paint.

5.4

However, an amendment document AQ4(99) of PG6/23 has

High temperature resistance coatings (>1000 °C) Intumescent coatings Top coats for intumescents

5.3

The solvent

Solvents are used either to dissolve the binder or act as a dispersant to facilitate application of the paint. Solvents are, therefore, usually organic liquids or water. Paints are applied to steel surfaces by many methods but in all cases this produces a ‘wet film’. The thickness of the ‘wet film’ can be measured, before the solvent evaporates, using a comb-gauge. As the solvent evaporates, film formation occurs, leaving the binder and pigments on the surface as a ‘dry film’. The thickness of the ‘dry film’ can be measured, usually with an electromagnetic induction gauge.


The relationship between the thickness of the applied ‘wet

Liquid resins of low viscosity can be used in the formulation

film’ and the final ‘dry film’ thickness (dft) is determined by the

thereby avoiding the need for a solvent. Such coatings are

percentage by volume of solids of the paint, i.e.:

referred to as ‘solvent less’ or ‘solvent free’ and can be

dft = ‘wet film’ thickness x % volume solids

applied as very thick films, with film thicknesses in excess of 1000 m.

In general, the corrosion protection afforded by a paint film is directly proportional to its dry film thickness.

7.0 Classification of paints

6.0 Main generic types of paint and their properties

Since, in the broadest terms, a paint consists of a particular pigment, dispersed in a particular binder, dissolved in a particular solvent then the number of generic types of paint is limited. The most common methods of classifying paints are

6.1

Air drying paints (e.g. alkyds)

either by their pigmentation or by their binder type.

These materials dry and form a film by an oxidative process,

Primers for steels are usually classified according to the main

which involves absorption of oxygen from the atmosphere.

corrosion inhibitive pigments used in their formulation, e.g.

They are therefore limited to relatively low film thicknesses

zinc phosphate primers, metallic zinc or aluminium primers, etc.

(typically 40 m). Once the film has formed it has limited solvent resistance and usually poor chemical resistance.

Each of these inhibitive pigments can be incorporated into a range of binder resins giving, for example, zinc phosphate alkyd primers, zinc phosphate epoxy primers, zinc phosphate

6.2

One-pack chemical resistant paints (e.g. acrylated rubbers or vinyls)

acrylated rubber primers, etc. Undercoats (intermediate coats) and finish coats are usually

For these materials, film formation requires only solvent

classified according to their binders, e.g. epoxies, vinyls,

evaporation and no oxidative process is involved. They can

urethanes, etc.

be applied as moderately thick films with film thicknesses of typically 50-75 m, though retention of solvent in the film can be a problem at the upper end of this range. The formed film

8.0 Prefabrication primers

remains relatively soft and has poor solvent resistance but good chemical resistance.

8.1

Introduction

Bituminous paints also dry by solvent evaporation. They are essentially solutions of asphaltic bitumen in organic solvents.

Prefabrication primers are also referred to as blast primers, shop primers, temporary primers, holding primers, etc.

6.3

Two-Pack chemical resistant paints (e.g. epoxy or urethane)

These primers are used on structured steelwork, immediately after blast cleaning, to maintain the reactive blast cleaned

These materials are supplied as two separate components,

surface in a rust-free condition until final painting can be

usually referred to as the base and the curing agent. When

undertaken. They are mainly applied to steel plates and

these two components are mixed (immediately before use) a

sections before fabrication which may involve welding or gas

chemical reaction occurs. These materials therefore have a

cutting.

limited ‘pot life’ before which the mixed coating must be applied. The polymerisation reaction continues after the paint

The main requirements of a prefabrication primer are as follows:

has been applied and after the solvent has evaporated to produce a densely cross linked film which can be very hard and has good solvent and chemical resistance.

The primer should be capable of airless spray application to produce a very thin even coating. Dry film thickness is usually limited to 15-20 m. Below 15 m the peaks of the blast

four


profile are not protected and ‘rust rashing’ occurs on weathering. Above 25 m the primer affects the quality of the weld and produces excessive weld fume.

8.3

Epoxy primers

Epoxy primers are two-pack materials utilising epoxy resins and usually have either polyamide or polyamine curing

The primer must dry very quickly. Priming is often done in-line with automatic blast cleaning plant which may be handling plates or sections at a pass rate of 1-3 metres/minute. The interval between priming and handling is usually of the order of 1-10 minutes and hence the primer film must dry within this time.

agents. They are pigmented with a variety of inhibitive and non-inhibitive pigments. Zinc phosphate epoxy primers are the most frequently encountered and give the best durability within the group.

8.4 Normal fabrication procedures (e.g. welding, gas cutting) must not be significantly impeded by the coating, and the primer should not cause excessive weld porosity (a welding certificate should be available).

Zinc epoxy primers

These primers can be either zinc-rich or reduced zinc types. Zinc-rich primers produce films which contain about 82 to 85% by weight of metallic zinc powder while corresponding figures for the reduced zinc type are as low as 55% by weight.

Weld fume emitted by the primer must not exceed the appropriate Occupational Exposure Limits. Proprietary primers are tested and certified in the UK by the Newcastle Occupational Health Agency (a Health & Safety certificate should be available).

When exposed in either marine or highly industrial environments, zinc epoxy primers are prone to the formation of insoluble white zinc corrosion products which must be removed from the surface before subsequent overcoating. This cleaning process is usually known as ‘secondary’ surface preparation.

The primer coating should provide adequate protection. It should be noted that manufacturers may claim extended durability for their prefabrication primers and suggested exposure periods of 6-12 months are not uncommon. In practice, such periods are rarely met except in the least arduous conditions, e.g. indoor storage. In aggressive conditions, durability can often be measured in weeks rather than months.

All zinc epoxy primers produce zinc oxide fume during welding and gas cutting and this can cause a health hazard.

8.5

Zinc silicate primers

Zinc silicate primers produce a level of protection which is comparable with that provided by the zinc-rich epoxy types

Zinc-rich and zinc silicate primers provide the highest order of protection of all prefabrication primers.

and they suffer from the same drawbacks, e.g. the formation of zinc salts and production of zinc oxide fume during welding. There are currently different categories of zinc silicate primers

The primed surface, after weathering, should require the minimum of re-preparation for subsequent painting and must be compatible with the intended paint system.

based upon the binder (organic or inorganic) and the zinc content. Low-zinc primers in this group have been developed to improve their weldability and to minimise weld porosity. However, their durability is also reduced. The organic silicate

Many proprietary prefabrication primers are available but they can be classified under the following main generic types: etch primers, epoxy primers, zinc epoxy primers, zinc silicate primers.

8.2

primers are the most suitable as prefabrication primers.

9.0 The application of paints

Etch primers 9.1

Etch primers are based on polyvinyl butyral resin reinforced with a phenolic resin to increase water resistance.

Introduction

The method of application and the conditions under which paints are applied have a significant effect on the quality and

These primers can be supplied in a single pack or two-pack form, the latter providing better durability.

durability of the coating. Standard methods used to apply paints to structural steelwork include application by brush, roller, conventional air spray and airless spray. Other methods

five


such as dip application can also be used, where practicable,

For airless spraying, the paint is hydraulically compressed

e.g. for small items such as brackets.

and, on release through a small orifice in an airless spray gun, it is atomised and projected onto the surface. By changing the

9.2

Brush application

This is the simplest method but also the slowest and, therefore, most expensive. Nevertheless, it has certain advantages over the other methods, e.g. better wetting of the surface, and can be used in restricted spaces, be useful for small areas, with less wastage and contamination of surroundings. The traditional method of brush application provides very high shearing forces between the liquid paint and the substrate. This greatly assists the intimate wetting of the steel surface and results in better adhesion of the dry paint film. Brush application is labour-intensive (i.e. costly) and may be considered too slow when very large areas are being coated. Despite this, and especially where the highest standard of surface cleaning has not been specified, it is recommended that the priming coat, if at all possible, is applied by brush.

9.3

Roller application

orifice size and shape and by varying the hydraulic pressure, atomisation can be accomplished for a wide range of paint consistencies from thin to thick, to give a wide range of rates of deposition. The equipment required is much more expensive than for air-assisted spraying, because it must withstand the much higher pressures involved. For air-assisted spraying, the maximum air pressure will normally not exceed 690 kPa (100 psi); for airless spraying, hydraulic pressures of up to 27,500 kPa (4,000 psi) may be required. A variant of the above involves heating to reduce the consistency of the paint rather than adding diluents. In this way greater film thickness per application is achieved. This method can be used for the application of solvent-free materials such as two-pack products which can be mixed at the spray gun nozzle at the moment of application. The use of expensive equipment and highly skilled labour is necessary for the achievement of optimum results but is justified for the protection of large and important structures.

10.0 Conditions of application

This process is much quicker than brushing and is used for large flat areas, but demands suitable rheological properties of the paint. However, structural steel surfaces are never

10.1 Introduction

ideally flat, and roller application will ride over high spots and miss edges. It is not suitable for coating awkward corners,

The principal conditions which affect the application of paint

bolt heads etc., and is therefore not a recommended

coatings are temperature and humidity. These can be more

application method.

easily controlled under shop conditions than on site.

9.4

10.2 Temperature

Spray application

In spray application, the paint is atomised into fine droplets

Air temperature and steel temperature affect solvent

and projected onto the surface to be protected where the

evaporation, brushing and spraying properties, drying and

droplets join together to form a continuous film. The

curing times and the pot life of two-pack materials, etc. Where

atomisation can be accomplished in a number of ways.

heating is required, this should only be by indirect methods.

In air spraying, the paint is atomised by mixing it with a stream

10.3 Humidity

of compressed air in a conventional spray gun. The paint can be either sucked into the air stream (as in the simple suctioncup gun used for application to small areas) or fed to the spray gun under pressure from a pressure pot. For ideal application, careful adjustments of the spray nozzle and air pressures must be made by a skilled operator, according to the consistency and composition of the paint product and the

Paints should not be applied when there is condensation present on the steel surface or the relative humidity of the atmosphere is such that it will affect the application or drying of the coating. Normal practice is to measure the steel temperature with a contact thermometer and to ensure that it is maintained at least 3 °C above the dew point.

film thickness required.

six


11.0 Metallic coatings 11.1 Introduction

Zinc

The two most commonly used methods of applying metallic coatings to structural steel are hot-dip galvanizing and thermal (metal) spraying. Zn/Fe Alloys

In general, the corrosion protection afforded by metallic coatings is largely dependent upon the choice of coating metal and its thickness and is not greatly influenced by the method of application.

Steel

Figure 2. Hot-dip galvanizing

11.2

Hot-dip galvanizing Silicon and phosphorus can have a marked effect on the

The most common method of applying a zinc coating to

thickness, structure and appearance of galvanized coatings.

structural steel is by hot-dip galvanizing (Figure 2).

The thickness of the coating is largely dependent on the silicon content of the steel and the bath immersion time.

The galvanizing process involves the following stages: (i)

(ii)

(iii)

(iv)

(v)

Any surface oil or grease is removed by suitable degreasing agents. The steel is then usually cleaned of all rust and scale by acid pickling. This may be preceded by blast cleaning to remove scale and roughen the surface but such surfaces are always subsequently pickled in inhibited hydrochloric acid. The cleaned steel is then immersed in a fluxing agent to ensure good contact between the steel and zinc during the galvanizing process. The cleaned and fluxed steel is dipped into a bath of molten zinc at a temperature of about 450 °C. At this temperature, the steel reacts with the molten zinc to form a series of zinc/iron alloys integral with the steel surface. As the steel workpiece is removed from the bath, a layer of relatively pure zinc is deposited on top of the alloy layers.

These thick coatings (circa 200 m) sometimes have a dull dark grey appearance and can be susceptible to mechanical damage. Since hot-dip galvanizing is a dipping process, there is obviously some limitation on the size of components which can be galvanized. Double dipping can often be used when the length or width of the workpiece exceeds the size of the bath. Some aspects of the design of structural steel components need to take the galvanizing process into account, particularly with regard the ease of filling, venting and draining and the likelihood of distortion. To enable a satisfactory coating, suitable holes must be provided in hollow articles (e.g. tubes and rectangular hollow sections) to allow access for the molten zinc, the venting of hot gases to prevent explosions, and the subsequent draining of zinc. Further guidance on the design of articles to be hot dip galvanized can be found in EN ISO 14713. Distortion of fabricated steelwork can be caused by differential

As the zinc solidifies, it usually assumes a crystalline metallic

thermal expansion and contraction and by the relief of

lustre, often referred to as spangling. The thickness of the

unbalanced residual stresses during the galvanizing process.

galvanized coating is influenced by various factors including the size and thickness of the workpiece and the surface

The specification of hot-dip galvanized coatings for structural

preparation of the steel. Thick steels and steels which have

steelwork was previously covered by BS 729 which was

been abrasive blast cleaned tend to produce relatively thick

superseded in 1999 by EN ISO 1461. The minimum average

coatings.

coating thickness requirement for steels not less than 6 mm thick remains at 85 µm. This standard was developed in

seven

Additionally the steel composition has an effect on the coating

conjunction with a metal coatings Guidance Document, EN

produced.

ISO 14713.


For many applications, hot-dip galvanizing is used without

roughened surface and blast cleaning with a coarse grit

further protection. However, to provide extra durability, or

abrasive is normally specified. This would usually be chilled

where there is a decorative requirement, paint coatings are

iron grit but for steels with a hardness exceeding 360 HV,

applied. The combination of metal and paint coatings is

alumina or silicon carbide grits may be necessary.

usually referred to as a ‘duplex’ coating. When applying paints to

galvanized

coatings,

special

surface

preparation

treatments should be used to ensure good adhesion. These

Typically specified coating thicknesses vary between 150-200 m for aluminium and 100-150 m for zinc.

include light blast cleaning to roughen the surface and provide a mechanical key, the application of special etch

Thermal spray coatings can be applied in the shops or at site

primers or ‘T’ wash which is an acidified solution designed

and there is no limitation on the size of the workpiece, as

to react with the surface and provide a visual indication of

there is with hot-dip galvanizing. Since the steel surface

effectiveness.

remains cool, there are no distortion problems. Guidance on the design of articles to be thermally sprayed can be found in BS 4479: Part 7 and EN ISO 14713. Thermal spraying is

11.3 Thermal spray coatings

generally more expensive than hot-dip galvanizing.

An alternative method of applying a metallic coating to structural steelwork is by thermal (metal) spraying. In this case, either zinc or aluminium can be used. The metal, in powder or wire form, is fed through a special spray gun containing a heat source which can be either an oxygas flame or an electric arc (Figure 3). Molten globules of the metal are blown by a compressed air jet onto the previously grit blast cleaned steel surface. No alloying occurs and the coating which is produced consists of

For some applications, thermal spray coatings are further protected by the subsequent application of paint coatings. This first requires the application of a sealer which fills the pores in the metal spray coating and provides a smooth surface for application of the paint coating. The protection of structural steelwork against atmospheric corrosion by thermal sprayed aluminium or zinc coatings is covered in BS EN 22063:1994.

overlapping platelets of metal and is porous. These pores are subsequently sealed, either by applying a thin organic coating which penetrates into the surface or by

12.0 Specifying the protective system

corrosion products which form during exposure. Sealers may be un-pigmented, with colouring agents or aluminium flake.

Before selecting the system to be used, the specifier should consult relevant standards and guidance documents relative

The adhesion of sprayed metal coatings to steel surfaces

to the design, function and life requirements, etc. This exercise

is considered to be essentially mechanical in nature.

is best done at the earliest possible stage of the particular

It is therefore necessary to apply the coating to a clean

project by the client or his consultant in conjunction with the main contractor, his subcontractor, and the coatings manufacturer(s). It is very important that the client or his consultant has the benefit of advice from a coatings expert on his staff or from outside. Discussion will usually show that alternative systems are suitable and the final decision should

Aluminium

not rest first on cost.

Steel

Figure 3. Thermal Spray Coating

eight


13.0 Factors affecting choice The former is usually cheaper but requires the use of a weldable, prefabrication primer. For a given structure the following will be largely predetermined:

. . . . . .

The expected life of the structure and the feasibility of maintenance.

Prefabrication primers have to be applied to blast cleaned surfaces as thin films, usually of 25 m maximum thickness. Their durability is therefore limited and further shop coating is

The environment(s) to which the steelwork will be subjected. The size and shape of the structural members.

often desirable. Manual preparation methods are dependent upon weathering to loosen the mill scale. These methods are, therefore, not

The shop treatment facilities which are available to the fabricator and/or his coatings sub-contractor.

usually appropriate for shop treatments. On site an adequate

The site conditions, which will determine whether steel work can be treated after erection.

Many modern primers based on synthetic resins are not

The cost, i.e. the money which is available to provide protection.

weathering period, usually several months, must be allowed.

compatible with manually prepared steel surfaces since they have a low tolerance for rust and scale. However, with the phasing out of red lead primers which were very tolerant of poor surfaces, surface tolerant epoxies have been specially

These facts, and possibly others, have to be considered

developed and are widely used for maintenance jobs.

before making decisions on:

. . . .

Many oil and alkyd based primers cannot be overcoated with The types of coating to be used. The method of surface preparation. The method(s) of application.

finishing coats which contain strong solvents, e.g. acrylated rubbers, epoxies, bituminous coatings, etc. Two-pack epoxies have poor resistance to UV radiation and are highly susceptible to superficial ‘chalking’ degradation.

The number of coats and the thickness of each coat.

Overcoating problems can arise with two-pack epoxies unless they are overcoated before the prior coat is fully cured. This

In general, each case has to be decided on its own merits.

is particularly relevant when an epoxy system is to be partly

However, the following points may be of assistance in making

applied in the shop and partly on-site.

these decisions: Steelwork which is to be encased in concrete does not Protection requirements are minimal inside dry, heated

normally require any protection, given an adequate depth of

buildings. Hidden steelwork in such situations requires no

concrete cover (British Standard BS 8110).

protection at all. Perimeter steelwork which is hidden in the perimeter (cavity) The durability of painting systems is increased several times

walls of buildings can be sub-divided into two categories:

over by using abrasive blast cleaning methods rather than manual surface preparation.

(i)

Where an adequate air gap (40 mm minimum) exists between steel and the outer brick or stone leaf, then adequate protection can be achieved by applying relatively simple painting systems.

(ii)

Where the steelwork is in direct contact with the outer leaf, or is embedded in it then the steel should be hot-dip galvanized and painted with a water resistant coating, e.g. bitumen.

Shot blasting is preferred for most painting systems, however, grit blasting is essential for thermal spraying and some primers, e.g. zinc silicates. If abrasive blast cleaning is to be used, two alternative process routes are available: (i) (ii)

nine

Blast/prime/fabricate/repair damage. Fabricate/blast/prime.

Where fire protection systems are to be applied to the steelwork, consideration must be given to the question of


compatibility between the corrosion protection and the fire

coatings and sherardized coatings respectively and these

protection systems.

standards should be included in the protection specifications where appropriate.

New hot-dip galvanized surfaces can be difficult to paint and, unless special treatments are used, adhesion problems can arise. Weathering of the zinc surface before painting reduces

14.0 Writing the specification

this problem. The specification is intended to provide clear and precise Thermal spraying produces a porous coating which should be sealed by applying a low viscosity sealant. Further painting is then optional.

instructions to the contractor on what is to be done and how it is to be done. It should be written in a logical sequence, starting with surface preparation, going through each paint or metal coat to be applied and finally dealing with specific

Particular attention should be paid to the treatment of weld areas. Flux residues, weld spatter and sharp peaks should be removed before the application of coatings. In general, the objective should be to achieve the same standard of surface preparation and coating on the weld area as on the general surface. Black bolted joints require protection of the contact surfaces. This is normally restricted to the priming coat, which can be applied either in the shops or on site before the joint is assembled. For high strength friction grip bolted joints, the contacting surfaces must be free of any contaminant or coating which would reduce the slip factor required on the joint. Some thermal spray coatings and some inorganic zinc silicate primers can be used but virtually all organic coatings adversely affect the slip factor.

areas, e.g. welds. It should also be as brief as possible, consistent with providing all the necessary information. The most important items of a specification are as follows:

. . . . . . .

Fasteners, such as nuts and bolts, should also be considered in the protection specification to ensure that they are coated to a standard equivalent to the main structural steelwork. Where steelwork is coated in the fabricating shops and then bolted on site, the fasteners may only receive a finish coat

. .

The method of surface preparation and the standard required. This can often be specified by reference to an appropriate standard, e.g. BS 7079: Part Al Sa21/2 quality. The maximum interval between surface preparation and subsequent priming. The types of paint or metal coatings to be used, supported by standards where these exist. The method(s) of application to be used. The number of coats to be applied and the interval between coats. The wet and dry film thickness for each coat. Where each coat is to be applied (i.e. shops or site) and the application conditions that are required, in terms of temperature, humidity etc. Details for treatment of welds, connections etc. Rectification procedures for damage etc.

unless the specification is written to ensure that the fasteners are adequately protected. For steelwork which is to be treated to a high standard of protection e.g. blast cleaning and a high

15.0 Inspection

performance coating system, the fasteners should also be treated accordingly.

As in most contractual situations, inspection must be carried out to ensure that the requirements of the specification are

For example, metal coated structural steelwork should be

being met.

connected with fasteners that have equivalent metal coating, where practical, to aim for a similar durability.

Inspection of the processes, procedures and materials required for the protective coating of steel structures is vital,

Reference to BS 7371:1998 ‘Coatings on Metal Fasteners’,

since a major error in even one operation cannot be easily

Part 6 and Part 8 relate to specifications for hot dip galvanised

detected after the next operation has been carried out, and if

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not rectified immediately can significantly reduce the expected

Where precautions are necessary, paint manufacturers label

life to first maintenance.

their products suitably and equipment manufacturers give necessary advice. However, because of the complicated

The appointment of a suitably qualified inspector should be

nature of some requirements, it is good policy to enlist the aid

regarded as an important part of the job. Those involved with

of the local Health and Safety Inspectorate in defining the

such duties should have been trained in internationally

requirements for any particular situation. Training of operators

recognised practices and standards and have appropriate

in the procedures required to obtain effective coating

certification. Such schemes are available through The

protection of steel structures should always include instruction

Institute of Corrosion in the UK.

on health and safety requirements.

16.0 Costs

18.0 Environmental protection

The cost of protective coatings is not usually a dominant item

In addition to the requirements for corrosion protection, there

in the capital cost of any project. However, when capital cost

is increasing pressure being introduced by legislation to use

estimates suggest that the budget will be exceeded, planned

paints and coatings which are ‘environmentally friendly’ and

expenditure on protective coatings often suffers.

thereby minimise damage to the atmosphere. The implications for specifiers are to specify coatings which do not contain high

It is, however, now well established that when the initial

quantities of organic solvents and toxic or harmful

protective coating system is not correctly specified or is not

substances. Following the introduction of the Environmental

done exactly to the specification, the expected life to first

Protection Act (1990), the Secretary of State’s Process

maintenance will not be achieved and subsequent attempts to

Guidance Note PG6/23 ‘Coating of Metal and Plastic (97)’,

recover the situation by additional maintenance can be

referred to previously, should be consulted and the paints in

excessively costly.

the draft specification checked for compliance with the appropriate category. Compliant coatings generally are those

When the cost of protecting a very-long-life structure is being

which contain high solids or water as the primary solvent or

considered, it is wise to estimate the whole life cost and to

are solvent free.

consider the specification of durable treatments to maximise performance and minimise total costs.

Specifiers now have the responsibility of including ‘compliant’ coatings particularly for shop applications. Most reputable paint manufacturers indicate whether their coatings are

17.0 Health and safety

‘compliant’ with the appropriate categories listed in the Process Guidance Notes.

The increasing awareness of health and safety requirements in industry has placed restrictions on the operations and materials used for the protective coating of structural steel. In particular, the provisions of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Control of Pollution Act 1974 must be observed. For example,

eleven

(i)

Because of toxicity, there are restrictions on the use of certain materials and components.

(ii)

Noise produced by processes such as blast cleaning must be kept below a level that would damage hearing.

(iii)

Explosion hazards must be avoided by providing ventilation to remove flammable solvents and/or dust.

(iv)

Operators must be protected against such hazards by the provision of protective clothing, fresh air masks, ear muffs, etc.

19.0 Additional reference reading & futher sources of information Additional reference reading

The Engineers and Architects Guide to Hot Dip Galvanizing, Galvanizers Association, 1998.

Steelwork Corrosion Control, Bayliss, D.A. and Chandler K.A. Sprayed Metal Coatings Protect Steel Structures, Association

Elisevier Applied Science, 1991.

of Thermal Sprayers. New Paint Systems for the Protection of Construction The Environmental Protection Act, 1990, Part 1 Secretary of

Steelwork Report 174, CIRIA, 1997.

State’s Guidance - Coating of Metal and Plastic - PG6/23(97) The Improving Performance of Hot Dip Galvanizing and

March 1997 - Department of the Environment.

Duplex Coatings, Institute of Corrosion WGE5/10 Report, The Environmental Protection Act 1990, Part 1

August 1997.

as above. Amendment AQ4(99), April 1999.

Further Sources of Information National Corrosion Service National Physical Laboratory Queens Road Teddington Middlesex TW11 0LW Tel: 020 8943 6142 Fax: 020 8943 7107 The Institute of Corrosion Leck House 4 Lake Street Leighton Buzzard Bedfordshire LU7 8TQ Tel : 01525 851771 Fax: 01525 376690

Building Research Advisory Service Garston Watford WD2 7JR Tel: 01923 664664 Fax: 01923 664098 Paint Research Association Waldegrave Road Teddington Middlesex TW11 8LD Tel: 020 8977 4427 Fax: 020 8943 4705

Galvanizers Association Wren’s Court 56 Victoria Road Sutton Coldfield West Midlands B27 1SY Tel: 0121 355 8838 Fax: 0121 355 8727 The Thermal Spraying and Surface Engineering Association 5 Keats Road Stratford upon Avon Warwickshire CV37 7JL Tel: 01789 299661 Fax: 01789 268324

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The National Corrosion Service The National Corrosion Service (NCS) is operated by NPL on behalf of the DTI to provide a gateway to corrosion expertise for UK users. By acting as a focal point for corrosion enquiries, the NCS can make the UK’s entire base of experts available to solve problems or can, using in-house expertise or teams, carry out consultancy. The NCS also helps raise awareness of corrosion problems and methods of control. For more information on NCS services and products please contact us at: Tel: 020 8943 6142

Fax: 020 8943 7107

2295/aaron/IK/0004

E-mail: [email protected]

National Physical Laboratory, Queens Road, Teddington, Middlesex TW11 0LW NPL’s Web Page can be found at: www.npl.co.uk or Email: [email protected] Tel: 020 8943 6880 Fax: 020 8943 6458

© Crown Copyright 2000. Reproduced by permission of the Controller of HMSO

COATING FOR THE PROTECTION OF STRUCTURAL STEELWORK

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